Rivian R2 begins real-world validation, revealed unique camouflaged units

Rivian has officially announced that the R2 electric mid-size SUV has entered the validation phase, including real-world drive tests in a uniquely camouflaged appearance.

These are production-intent vehicles, which means that the near completed R2 vehicle will now be seen on road and stay in test mode until it checks all driving and maneuvering parameters.

Rivian has already revealed the design of these vehicles in 2024, but the wraps are still the most unique that any carmaker has ever tried on an unreleased model.

Jonathan Szczupak, Senior Director of Exterior Design, has designed these custom wraps for R2 and explained a few things about the purpose behind their composition. Jonathan said that the wraps are inspired by textures, patterns, and movement from nature. These look and feel alive, dynamic, and a little mysterious.

Source – Rivian

The motive behind the design is to let people explore the shapes and the scene shown in the wraps to find meaning for every shape and detail.

However, the R2 design is already revealed, so why is the company still applying camo on this new vehicle? Jonathan elaborated on that part by saying the R2 still working on small updates, which are still taking place as the vehicle approaches its final production.

Source – Rivian

The wraps enable the R2 team to work on these refinement while keeping the people focused on the wraps as well as the previous design.

That’s not it, the camouflaged Rivian R2 could also have Easter eggs hidden in shapes, references, and nods. Last but not least, Jonathan said that the wraps are currently designed for the development process, but these might also make it into production based on demand.

According to the information, Rivian is aiming to start this vehicle from $45,000, and it’ll be eligible for a Federal tax credit. The launch date is set for 2026, and it’s available for online reservation.

(Source)